North Charleston, S.C.-based Polymer Group Inc. (PGI) has installed a new spunbond line at its
plant in Mooresville, N.C., for the production of high-quality engineered materials for diapers,
incontinence and feminine hygiene products, and industrial filtration applications. The company has
invested some $40 million in the plant expansion and will add about 50 local employees.
According to the company, the new line will give it the leading North American market share
for hygiene materials; and the materials produced will be lighter in weight and softer, and will
offer better barrier qualities than traditional products for the targeted applications.
Noting the expansion is part of PGI’s
strategic growth plan that involves “growing strong and growing smart,” CEO James L. Schaeffer
said: “We are growing strong by adding capacity where it’s needed. And we’re growing smart by
driving technology and innovation.”
“The company chose North Carolina for this latest expansion because of its skilled workforce
and access to local research and educational facilities, the growing industry cluster of nonwovens
resources in the state and a business-friendly environment,” said Mike Hale, vice president and
general manager, US nonwovens.
PGI expects to relocate its corporate headquarters to Charlotte by the end of July 2006.
That move will consolidate 100 management, administrative and other employees in one location and
will bring the company’s total workforce in North Carolina to approximately 450 people.
June 27, 2006
